“I am the first woman in my hometown to be made a chief” – Chimamanda Adichie brags

Chimamanda Adichie, a popular writer, revealed that she is the first woman to be conferred a Chieftaincy title in her hometown. She also urged cultural custodians to ensure that both genders are equally celebrated.

Her hometown bestowed a chieftaincy title on the award-winning novelist last Friday.

Adichie, who is from Abba in Anambra State, was given the title ‘Odeluwa Abba’. The ceremony was attended by the Governor of Anambra State, Charles Soludo, as well as other dignitaries.

Adichie expressed gratitude to those who supported her during the chieftaincy ceremony on Wednesday, saying her title would open doors of recognition for other accomplished women in their respective fields.

“I am so grateful to my people of Abba in Anambra State for their warmth and love, for their enthusiastic support. And to Igwe L.N. Ezeh, who has always valued education, for giving me the title of “Odeluwa” — ‘the one who writes for the world.’ (My father received the title of “Odelora” — ‘the one who writes for the community” and the symbolism means very much to me.)

“I am the first woman in my hometown to be made a chief, and it makes me happy to know that more women will follow. Culture does not make people, people make culture. Cultures thrive when they best serve and reflect the people. Ours must become a culture that celebrates achievement, whether it comes from a man or a woman.

“It was a day filled with joyful moments but the highlight for me was the sight of many children on the dusty road, laughing and waving and shouting ‘Odeluwa!’ Amongst them, I hope, were little girls with their hearts full of dreams who feel encouraged to keep trying, to keep going,” she wrote in an Instagram post.